A source close to production tells ET that the 58-year-old comedian and Family Feud host signed a multi-year contract to host Miss Universe just days before the pageant aired Sunday, and that his paycheck is “more than they’ve ever paid before for a host.”

Contract negotiations came down to the wire. While Harvey had already been announced as this year’s host before the contract was finalized, the production didn’t start booking his travel until just a few days before the show.

This is actually a great start for Steve Harvey on Miss Universe. He’s created so much buzz by accident. Well played. Well played.